Sounds Like Thanksgiving
By Elena Lanza, Label & Artist Relations Manager at Vydia
Food and music go hand in hand. Both bypass logic and speak directly to our wiring, evoking memories and emotions. They are comfort, joy, solace, and nostalgia. Often, before even the first bite is taken or the first note played.
Which brings me to my absolute favorite holiday: Thanksgiving.
What began as a day to honor and be grateful has evolved into a celebration of gathering, tradition, food, family (and football). From the unofficial kickoff to the Holiday season, with the Macy’s Parade to the feast with all the fixings, and here in the Northeast, the crisp fall air. It’s a moment built for slowing down and being present. A chance to share and remember what matters.
In the spirit of sharing, I’m proud to present my First (hopefully annual) Thanksgiving Food & Music Pairing Playlist. Like the foods on the table, each track stands on its own. You’ll find a “mish-mosh” with something for everyone, from the smooth gravy (soul) train to the cherry on top of a pop pie.
So dig in and Enjoy…
Starters / Charcuterie
Charcuterie is effortlessly elegant, undeniably social, and sets the tone for the holiday. Similarly, house music works the same way. It’s shareable, rhythmic, layered, and with a perfectly timed slow build. To kick off this year’s celebration, try “Desire” by Mia Moretti: minimal, sensual, and inviting. Neither charcuterie nor this track fills you up , they pull you in.
Salad
Many tables start their sit-down meal with a salad. Light, refreshing, and energizing. Nick Kent’s indie pop track “Stay with Me” mirrors this perfectly; it boasts gentle guitars, warm vocals, and nothing fussy, just good vibes.
Thanksgiving Sides
Sides are the ultimate supporting cast, each adding flavor, texture, and mood without overpowering the plate. Stuffing is indulgent and homey, mashed potatoes creamy and comforting, sweet potatoes subtly rich. Much like these dishes, the GRAMMY-nominated Latin jazz album A Tribute to Benny Moré and Nat King Cole by Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Joey Calveiro, and Yainer Horta blends its influences with grace. It’s a deeply nostalgic meeting of worlds: the warmth and romanticism of classic jazz intertwined with vibrant Afro-Cuban rhythm for a result that sounds lush, elegant, and effortlessly harmonious.
The Main / Turkey
The centerpiece – the turkey – is comfort, warmth, familiarity. It’s the moment everyone slows down and sits together. BLKBOK’s “I’m Grateful We Met” mirrors this: gentle, intentional, emotionally open, yet never dramatic. It’s a track you breathe along with.
Gravy
No turkey is complete without gravy: rich, smooth, indulgent. Keith Robinson’s “Forever Bae” is the auditory equivalent. Warm, clear, and comforting, like a hug on top of the meal.
Dessert / Pie
Finally, dessert: all the pies, apple, pecan, pumpkin (the latter being debatable, because my family always argues whether this should be put out as a side dish or dessert), and the pièce de résistance: the cherry on top. Alex Bordonaro’s “Cherry on Top” is just that: something extra, the finishing touch, the perfect way to end the feast.
So there you have it. Buon appétit! And if you’re not full, head over to our specially curated playlist, Sounds Like Thanksgiving, for these and some other notable tracks from some amazing up-and-comers that I am thankful for this season.
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